VANDALISED derelict houses in Tonge Moor have left the area "looking like a war zone", say concerned residents.

Homeowners around Yates Street, Union Road and Pole Street say the state of empty properties in the area is an embarrassment to Bolton and poses a health hazard for residents.

One homeowner is threatening to create a website detailing the shameful state of the area if nothing is done.

He says neighbours are upset that several derelict homes have been vandalised, with drug taking equipment, mountains of litter and rotting furniture being dumped in gardens.

Graffiti covers the walls of many buildings, and security boards on windows and doors have been torn down and windows broken.

One property was cleared after complaints to Bolton Council from residents last year, but homeowners in the area say it has once again become an eyesore. None of the residents in the area want to be named, fearing reprisals from yobs.

Some say they have had their cars smashed following previous complaints.

One said: "To walk down these streets, you could easily believe a bomb had been dropped on certain buildings.

"This is supposed to be an area of regeneration, but it is disgusting. Residents say that Bolton Council should track down landlords and force them to clear up their properties before they take action themselves.

One man, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "These properties must belong to someone. They should be found and prosecuted for making parts of Tonge Moor a no-go area.

"Im prepared to put pictures of every unsightly property on to a website. That might embarrass the council into taking action."

Ward councillor Frank White said: "Unfortunately as we sort one problem in this area, another pops up elsewhere.

"These landlords are being incredibly socially irresponsible, and something does need to be done, but this will cost a lot of money."